About the Job:
Job Title: Maintenance & Plumbing Technician
Location: NorCal Aquarium and Wildlife Adventures
Job Summary:
The Maintenance & Plumbing Technician is responsible for the daily maintenance, repair, and optimization of plumbing and facility systems that support aquatic exhibits and overall operations. This role plays a critical part in ensuring all water systems, filtration, and mechanical infrastructure operate safely and efficiently to support animal health, guest experience, and regulatory compliance.
Key Responsibilities:
Plumbing & Water Systems:
- Install, maintain, and repair plumbing systems including PVC, copper, and flexible piping.
- Support aquatic life support systems (LSS), including filtration, pumps, valves, and water flow systems.
- Troubleshoot and resolve leaks, clogs, pressure issues, and system failures.
- Assist with water quality management by ensuring proper system function and flow rates.
Preventative Maintenance:
- Perform routine inspections and preventative maintenance on plumbing and facility systems.
- Maintain maintenance logs, work orders, and repair documentation.
- Identify risks and proactively address potential system failures.
Equipment & Facilities Support:
- Maintain pumps, filtration units, heaters, chillers, and related mechanical systems.
- Assist with general facility maintenance (minor electrical, HVAC support, basic carpentry, floor maintenance and painting, as needed)
- Coordinate repairs and upgrades with leadership and external vendors when necessary.
Safety & Compliance:
- Ensure all work complies with safety standards, OSHA regulations, and company SOPs.
- Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment.
- Follow proper procedures when working around animals and sensitive life support systems.
Team Collaboration:
- Partner with husbandry, life support, and operations teams to minimize disruptions to exhibits.
- Communicate system issues clearly and provide timely updates on repairs.
- Support emergency response for system failures or urgent maintenance needs.
Qualifications:
Required:
- 2+ years of plumbing or maintenance experience.
- Experience with pumps, piping systems, and basic mechanical troubleshooting.
- Ability to read and interpret technical diagrams and schematics.
- Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to lift 50+ lbs and work in wet, humid, or confined environments.
Preferred:
- Experience with aquatic systems, aquariums, or life support systems (LSS).
- Knowledge of water filtration systems and water quality concepts.
- Basic electrical or HVAC knowledge.
- Trade certification or relevant vocational training.
Work Environment:
- Indoor aquarium setting with exposure to water, humidity, and varying temperatures.
- May require early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays.
- On-call availability for urgent maintenance issues may be required.
Key Competencies:
- Reliability and accountability.
- Hands-on problem solving.
- Attention to detail.
- Team collaboration.
- Adaptability in a fast-paced environment.